Male Rape Disclosed

Updated on October 23, 2013

The Other Side to Rape

When one first hears about rape they automatically get prepared for a story about a man forcing himself on a child or woman and the torment and ordeal they must have endured. The only thing wrong with this is that not only women are subjectable to being raped, but so are young boys and men with the only difference being that it is barely spoken about as the details are not only heart wrenching; but basically tabooed because it has happened to the opposite sex and not many want to contemplate their ordeal or even envision it.

The fact remains that many young boys are abused physically and emotionally at a very young age and with it comes a lot of emotional distress later in life as they try to cope with their circumstances to no avail. Keeping it a secret from their parents for fear they may be harmed or worse by their molester or just being ashamed for letting it happen to begin with. Unfortunately, these predators know exactly what to say or do to intimidate their victim and the shame of it can lead many to lead a life full of resentment which can later turn into full hatred if therapy isn’t sought right away.

In addition to the facts outlined above men have to also suffer needlessly if convicted as they either have to fight for their lives or their virtue if placed behind bars with unscrupulous beings that couldn’t care less if they have to force themselves on you. Many men behind bars have to handle their own or team up with a group that will protect or look out for their backs, but sometimes it doesn’t happen soon enough and they are either gang raped or turned into a certain individuals play mate for the duration of their stay.

Unfortunately, the statistics surrounding male rape is escalating dramatically each day, but many victims remain quiet because they do not want to be scrutinized or they desperately fear losing their loved one for not being strong enough or man enough to fight back. The sad thing is that if faced with such a situation outside of the jail life they may have a chance if they are old enough to stand their ground, but once behind bars the fear of it all takes over and it can hardly be avoided. It is either fight or sink, and while most choose to fight the outcome is not always in their favor, not to mention the lack of tracking such instances in men as well as the lack of research remains a topic not acceptable for discussion.

Matters behind bars are also difficult when Correctional Officers turn the other cheek, rape someone themselves, the incident goes unreported or the system fails those behind bars a lot more than the judicial system does initially. These men after experiencing such an ordeal can’t fathom ever speaking up about it even long after they have been released, and the guilt, shame and embarrassment is shared just as equally as it is with a woman victim. Torment, pain and depression can also be an outcome and they as well have to face this for the rest of their lives.

Statistics

Based on what’s been gathered thus far we can estimate that:

3% of American men, that’s 2.78 million have experienced rape at some point in their lifetime.

71% of male victims were raped before their 18th birthday, 16.6% were between the age of 18-24 and 12.3% were 25 and older.

22% of male inmates have been raped at least once during their incarceration, which is roughly 420,000 inmates per year.

Rape is rape no matter if it’s a male or female. It is an ordeal many fear being a victim to and something that must be dealt with if victimized by seeking a psychotherapist or even a support group to help one cope with the distress that follows. Like I mentioned before this may be extremely difficult to open up to if a heterosexual male, but let me reiterate how important it is that you do seek the professional help needed to help you better take control of your life and your future.

If you are a victim and can relate or share your ordeal please feel free. Writing about it may help you feel better or better yet help someone else just looking for answers on how to cope themselves. You do not have to leave your name, thank you and stay blessed.

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Comments 11 comments

Definitely so, growing up I can't remember this being such a problem. I've always had my thoughts on the prison system due to stories I heard as a teen as well as a few movies, but I find it so hard to swallow that nothing is being done to prevent it from happening.

Charlie Bee 6 years ago from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Great hub one2recognize2! Nice work, and I appreciate your objectivity regarding this sensitive subject-matter. You are a true Professional! I wanted to send you 'FANMAIL', but am unsure how to do it. Keep-up your fine work! I look forward to future hubs from you.

one2recognize2 6 years ago from New York Author

Thank you Charlie Bee. I truly appreciate your feedback and can also say to you that I look forward to reading more of your hubs as well.

kowality 6 years ago from Everywhere

To most, this would sound like fiction until you have someone close to you break down and spill their heart. Thank You so much for writing about this sensitive matter.

one2recognize2 6 years ago from New York Author

Thanks kowality for stopping by and commenting. Unfortunately, it is not focused on as much as it should be and the victims who suffer don't know where to turn for guidance due to society's neglect and ridicule on the subject in general. Hopefully soon we can all see some improvement.

lovekv 6 years ago

wow super da .....rape............like

James A Watkins 5 years ago from Chicago

Thank you for publishing this fantastic expose. You are right on target. This is a huge problem that gets poo-pooed by most Americans the same as when they couldn't care less about the number of males who are assaulted. You have performed a needful service and it is very good.

one2recognize2 5 years ago from New York Author

Thanks James for the wonderful feedback, I am glad you approved. I hope some day it isn't as poo-pooed and that it eventually gets more focus.

HaleyMCruz 4 years ago from California

Wow, the statistics were horrible to look at, but they really do put perspective on things. It is true, you just don't hear much about rape or abuse to men on TV or even by word of mouth, and your hub really brings that point out in the open. Good topic to bring to everyone's attention, and I liked how it was written :)

one2recognize2 4 years ago from New York Author

Hello Haley and thank you for taking the time to read and comment on behalf of this hub/topic... It really is a shame that it is so strongly tabooed.